Saint Kitts and Nevis are two tropical islands in the Caribbean. They underwent two changes in seat, from English to French occupation, before falling under the United Kingdom. It wasn’t until 1983 that both islands became an independent government. By then, it was already too late. European forces had already influenced the culture and architectural style of these Caribbean islands, resulting in a myriad of attractions associated to their rule.

View of Nevis from St. Kitts

During colonial times, Europe treated St. Kitts as a gateway for conquering the West Indies. And so they settled in the island, built sugar plantations, and brought in slaves from Africa. Today, these plantations have been abandoned and annual festivities abound in celebration of old traditions. They are among the top reasons to visit St. Kitts and Nevis. To get a better view of the island’s plantations, you should get aboard the Scenic Railway which travels along the rails of the old sugar train.

Plantations may be a spectacle but the Brimstone Hill Fortress is still one of the most impressive tourist spots in St. Kitts, reminiscent of colonial times. It started out as a national park and was later declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can admire the fortress itself or catch stunning panoramic views of surrounding landscapes and islands. Nevis Island also has its own fortress, Fort Charles. Compared to Brimstone Hill of St. Kitts however, it only has a few ruins and canons intact.

St. George’s Anglican Church in Basseterre, Saint Kitts

Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis, has several attractions in its midst. One of them is St. George’s Anglican Church. The Indepence Square is also a major tourist spot in the city. Slaves were sold here in the past. The National Museum is also a must-see as it details the country’s long history from pre-colonial to post-colonial times. The museum is hidden from sight at the Old Treasury building built in 1894.